After the joy and exhaustion of childbirth, the postpartum period brings a new set of challenges and experiences for you as a new mother. Understanding the importance of having a postpartum assessment with your healthcare provider is crucial – not only for your health and recovery but also for your ability to care for your newborn effectively.
In this article, we’ll focus on what constitutes a thorough postpartum assessment.
What is Postpartum Assessment?
Postpartum assessment involves evaluating your physical, emotional, and psychological well-being following the birth of your child. These regular assessments are crucial for identifying and addressing common postpartum issues to ensure you are
- recovering properly from labor and delivery and
- adjusting well to your new role.
This broadly encompasses everything from physical recovery and mental health to addressing any complications that may have arisen during your pregnancy, labor, or delivery.
If you’ve had very high blood pressure while in the hospital, the doctor will need to see you three to four days after discharge to check your blood pressure to ensure it’s within the safe and normal range. But otherwise…
The First Postpartum Checkup
The two weeks postpartum appointment is typically scheduled within the first 14 days after delivery and focuses on immediate post-delivery concerns. This makes sense.
There’s no vaginal exam at two weeks unless you have some problems or concerns. So you’ll have the following:
- Physical exam: Your provider checks your blood pressure, weight, breasts, and belly. If you had a Cesarean birth, they examine your C-section incision to ensure proper healing.
- General health assessment: Your provider will assess pre-existing conditions like diabetes (or the more temporary gestational diabetes) or high blood pressure. They also ensure you’re healing well, managing pain appropriately, and beginning to adjust to motherhood.
Postpartum Checkup at Six Weeks
When you reach six weeks postpartum, a comprehensive follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider is crucial. This checkup serves as a fundamental step in ensuring that both your physical and emotional recovery are progressing well.
Emotional Well-Being and Mental Health
It’s vital to discuss any feelings of anxiety, depression, or general emotional distress you might be experiencing. If you’ve had mental health issues in the past, your provider might assess your risk for postnatal depression and anxiety more closely.
They may also ask about your lifestyle, including your support system at home and quality of sleep, to better understand your overall situation.
Physical Health Review
Your provider will check on your physical recovery from childbirth. This includes asking about vaginal bleeding and whether you’ve had a menstrual period since giving birth. If you experienced an episiotomy, the healing of your stitches will be assessed. Additionally, your doctor will address any discomfort around your perineum to ensure proper healing.
They will examine your abdomen to confirm that your uterus is returning to its pre-pregnancy position. If you had a cesarean section, your doctor will check how the incision is healing and may offer to examine the scar.
Discussing Contraception and Sexual Health at Your Postpartum Assessment
Although it might be the last thing on your mind, this appointment is an opportunity to discuss your plans for contraception and any questions you might have regarding resuming sexual activity.
Urinary and Gastrointestinal Health
Questions about urinary incontinence, such as leaking urine when coughing or laughing, are common. Your doctor will likely suggest pelvic floor exercises if you’re experiencing these issues.
Additionally, if you find yourself having accidental bowel movements or passing gas involuntarily, it’s important to bring this up during the checkup, as these can also be common postpartum concerns. Don’t be afraid to mention these things: Doctors who specialize in women’s health have heard it all before and will be empathic and sensitive.
Breastfeeding and Breast Health
Your healthcare provider should ask you about how breastfeeding is going – if you’re taking that route – and check for any issues such as pain or symptoms of mastitis. They will have access to resources for additional support if needed.
Postpartum Labs and Health Screenings
Postpartum labs are an integral part of the postpartum assessment. These might include blood tests to check hemoglobin levels, thyroid function tests, and screenings for postpartum depression.
Leg Health and Other Concerns
If you notice any signs of varicose veins, leg swelling, or symptoms suggesting a blood clot, you should report them. Your healthcare provider may examine your legs to rule out any complications.
Vaccinations and Rescheduling Routine Tests
This is an opportunity to ensure vaccinations are up to date and schedule any necessary routine tests postponed due to pregnancy, such as smear tests.
How to Prepare for Your Postpartum Assessment
Preparing for your postpartum assessment can help you make the most of your visit and ensure you address all of your concerns with your healthcare provider:
- Write down any questions or issues you’ve been experiencing since your delivery.
- Keep track of any physical or emotional symptoms you’ve experienced, such as your sleeping patterns, any bleeding or discomfort, changes in mood, and breastfeeding issues.
- Be ready to discuss your health history and any complications during your pregnancy or delivery.
- Have information about your current medications, including any supplements or over-the-counter drugs you’re taking.
- Wear comfortable clothing to your appointment.
- If you need support, arrange for someone, like a partner, friend, or family member, to accompany you.
What Postpartum Items Do I Need?
Preparing for the postpartum period involves more than just mental preparation; it also requires practical items that can aid in recovery and comfort. Items such as high-absorbency pads, comfortable clothing, and pain relief medications are essential. Additionally, resources for breastfeeding, like nursing pads and creams, can help make the transition smoother.
Choosing the Right Postpartum Care Service
Selecting a postpartum care service that aligns with your needs and preferences is critical. These services can range from in-home nurse visits to outpatient counseling sessions. They provide tailored support that can make a significant difference in your recovery and adaptation to life with your new baby.
Expert Postpartum Assessment at Stella Mattina
We hope we’ve helped you to understand how important postpartum assessment is. At Stella Mattina, we offer exceptional care tailored to your unique needs. And to make things easier for you with your new baby, you may like to know we can offer same-day appointments and that we also accept most insurances as well as Medicare and Medicaid.
To make sure all is going well for you in these postpartum weeks and months, schedule your checkup today.
Dr. Krum is currently in practice in Arlington, TX. He received his undergraduate degree at Texas A&M University, then attended UTMB Galveston for medical school, finishing in 1986, completing his residency there in 1990. Providing a full range of obstetrical and gynecological care, he specializes in the treatment of endometriosis and robotic surgery. He arranges his schedule so that same-day appointments are usually available.